Community comes together for 75th rugby 7s and RNLI fundraising event
Families, rugby supporters, local businesses, joined forces to create a vibrant atmosphere at this year's Old Penarthians 75th Rugby 7s event.
The event brought together hundreds of people from across the area for a day of sport, entertainment, fundraising, and lifesaving awareness.
To the delight of players, spectators, and families gathered around the ground, young volunteers proudly accompanied Stormy Stan, the RNLI's mascot, across the field to present the match ball. The moment was met with warm applause from the crowd and perfectly captured the spirit of the event, bringing together sport, community involvement, and support for the RNLI's lifesaving mission.
Throughout the day, RNLI volunteers spoke with visitors about the charity's lifesaving role, shared important safety messages, and highlighted how public support enables volunteer crews and lifeguards to continue saving lives at sea.
The success of the event was made possible by the dedication and enthusiasm of numerous volunteers, organisers, sponsors, and supporters in Penarth, who generously gave their time and resources. Their efforts helped create a memorable occasion that showcased the very best of community spirit.
Penarth RNLI would like to extend a huge thank you to everyone at Old Penarthians RFC who helped make this year's 75th Rugby 7s such a tremendous success.
Stormy Stan said: 'It was very warm work, but it was wonderful to see so many people coming together to support the rugby 7s event. The atmosphere throughout the day was fantastic, and we are incredibly grateful to everyone who donated, volunteered, participated, and stopped by to learn more about our lifesaving work.'
David James, a member of the Old Penarthians committee, said: 'Seeing the club's Minis & Youth section ball boys Charlie, Leo and George huddle in preparation before helping Stormy Stan deliver the match ball to the referee was a wonderful way to start the day. It highlighted the importance of encouraging the next generation to get involved in their community and support good causes.'
The RNLI is proud to be part of such a supportive and generous community and looks forward to building on the success of this year's event. The charity hopes future collaborations will raise even more funds and awareness in support of its lifesaving mission.
RNLI Media Contacts
For further information, please contact:
Nick White, Volunteer Lifeboat Press Officer for Penarth RNLI, 07818680667 [email protected]
Claire Fitzpatrick-Smith, RNLI Regional Communications Manager for Wales, West of England and Isle of Man, 07977 728 315, [email protected]
Danielle Rush, RNLI Regional Communications Lead for Wales, West of England and Isle of Man, 07786 668829, [email protected]
RNLI Press Office, 01202 336789, [email protected]
Key facts about the RNLI
The RNLI is the charity that saves lives at sea. Its volunteers provide a 24-hour search and rescue service around the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland coasts. The RNLI operates 238 lifeboat stations in the UK and Ireland and more than 240 lifeguard units on beaches around the UK and Channel Islands. The RNLI is independent of Coastguard and government and depends on voluntary donations and legacies to maintain its rescue service. Since the RNLI was founded in 1824, its lifeboat crews and lifeguards have saved over 146,700 lives.
Learn more about the RNLI
For more information please visit the RNLI website or Facebook, TikTok and YouTube. News releases, videos and photos are available on the News Centre.
Contacting the RNLI - public enquiries
Members of the public may contact the RNLI on 0300 300 9990 (UK) or 1800 991802 (Ireland) or by email.